I’m starting a new school this year and I really want to
nail my first day. How can I make a great first impression?

The secrets to making a positive first impression are nearly
as mysterious as you might think. All you have to be is your sweet, charming
self. But paying attention to these seven focus areas will help ya bust the new
girl nerves and gain the confidence you need for your big first day.

Stop fussing

You know how when you’re nervous, you touch your face a lot
or twirl your hair. It’s time to put a stop to bad habits. Remind yourself that
you look great, and those locks don’t need any more smoothing, thank you very
much. If it helps, peek into a compact or duck into the girls’ bathroom to reassure
yourself that your outfit and makeup are in place.

Smile

You don’t need to plaster one on to rival Miss America, but
popping a grin will set your soon-to-be friend at ease and show that you’re
happy to be there and to make a new bud…even if your belly is doing back flips.

Be sincere

There’s nothing worse than talking idly to an individual who
clearly doesn’t care about what you have to say. Come up with a genuine
conversation starter, like, “Oh wow! Your shoes are so cute!” to kick things
off, and then lets the chatter flow.

Ask questions

If the convo is stalling, pull out some tried-‘n’-true
questions. Ask how her summer break was, who she has for English, any advice
she can dish for navigating the halls—anything goes! If you’re talking right before
the bell, don’t blabber on and on since you both have somewhere to be. But do show an interest.

Listen up!

Speaking of showing interest, it’s wicked important that you
actually listen to what your would-be-pal is saying and to remember it. File details like her passion for karate and
karaoke away so you can use them the next time you speak. Maybe she’ll invite
you to a class or sing-off!

Make eye contact

I know you’re nervous, but staring at your shoes isn’t gonna
help. You shouldn’t stare her down, but do
make eye contact as you speak. It shows that you’re actively listening to what
she has to say instead of critiquing her outfit or looking for someone else to
chat up.

See ya later!

Feelin’ good friendship vibes? Make casual plans to see her
later—in homeroom, lunch, on the bus, after school, whenever. Everybody likes
to have plans, especially on a hectic first day.